Meet the new Mayor of Warwick

A new mayor has now officially been elected for Warwick.

Last Thursday (July 30) Warwick Town Council held their Annual Meeting of the Town Council which includes the Warwick mayor making ceremony (the inauguration of the Town’s new mayor).

The Mayor of Warwick is a role steeped in tradition and ceremony.

Since 1664, the mayor has been the First Citizen of Warwick and represents the town, with the insignia of the mace, robes, and chains of office, and connects the present day with history, acting as a symbol of continuity.

Usually the mayor making takes place in May but in April it was announced that the mayor the the time, Cllr Neale Murphy was to have an extended term in office due to the pandemic.

Because of social distancing concerns the event was not open to the public.

Terry takes over the role of mayor from Cllr Neale Murphy.

Cllr Neale Murphy, said: "It has been an incredible privilege and I take great pride in having served the town as the 286th Mayor of Warwick.

"2020 has been, for me, the busiest of years and also the quietest of years with the current Pandemic.

"A full schedule of engagements with the most wonderful people of Warwick and seeing for myself how the community works together, and the great work that goes on in this wonderful town.

"Myself and my consort, Sarah, have been overwhelmed by how welcoming Warwick residents are; from the oldest to the youngest.

"I would like to wish our new Mayor of Warwick, Cllr Terry Morris, all the joy and success in his role. He will be a fantastic representative for our town.

"Thank you to all residents and visitors of Warwick who have supported me throughout my Mayoral term.

"This has been the most privileged position I have ever been in. Thank you."

Cllr Terry Morris, Mayor of Warwick said: "It is an incredible honour to be made Mayor of Warwick and I hope to continue the many wonderful traditions this position includes whilst also addressing the changing needs of the residents of Warwick."

Terry moved to Warwick in 2003 and was elected as a councillor in 2015.

Terry supports driving mental health awareness throughout the community and, along with his wife Liz, has actively engaged in a number of projects to reduce social isolation - including the Warwick Town Christmas lunches.

Prior to becoming Mayor, Terry was chair of Warwick Town Council’s finance and policy committee and served on the community and culture and allotments committees.

He is also a Warwick District councillor.

Terry was born in Reading, Berkshire in 1970 and forged a career in IT sales before founding his own company in 2018.

He now splits his time between running his business, serving as a councillor and supporting several local charitable initiatives.

During his Mayoral year, Terry will be raising awareness of, and funding for, charities who provide support around mental well-being.

The Mayor’s diary is co-ordinated by Sarah Acklam at the town council, who can be contacted by emailing: [email protected]